How can world resist US, China economic coercion? Abraham Newman explains
South China Morning Post
by Meredith ChenFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Abraham Newman, a political scientist at Georgetown University and co-author of *Underground Empire: How America Weaponised the World Economy*, explores how global economic interdependence has become a tool for coercion by major powers like the US and China. Newman discusses the concept of "weaponized interdependence," where nations leverage their economic influence to exert power, often leading to tensions in international relations. His insights are crucial for understanding how countries can navigate and resist such pressures while maintaining stability.
Newman highlights that weaponized interdependence involves the strategic use of economic ties to achieve political objectives. For instance, he points to US sanctions on China as an example of how economic leverage can be employed to influence foreign policies. Similarly, China's Belt and Road Initiative demonstrates how it uses investments and loans to extend its economic and political influence globally. These tactics underscore the dual-edged nature of globalization, where interdependence can either foster cooperation or enable coercion.
To resist economic coercion, Newman suggests that nations must diversify their economies and reduce reliance on any single power. Building multilateral coalitions and creating alternative trade networks can help countries gain more leverage in negotiations. Additionally, investing in domestic resilience through self-sufficiency in critical industries and fostering regional partnerships can mitigate vulnerabilities. Newman’s analysis provides a roadmap for navigating an increasingly competitive global economy.
This topic matters because it sheds light on the delicate balance of power in international relations. As economic coercion becomes a common tool of state strategy, understanding how to counteract it is essential for maintaining sovereignty and fostering global stability. Newman's work not only explains current tensions but also offers practical solutions, making it vital reading for anyone interested in the future of international economics and diplomacy.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026